Dry Eyes in Dogs – Causes and Solutions

‘Dry eyes’ is a term used when there is inadequate production of tears in the eyes. Dogs often face this ophthalmic situation due to the various reasons like infections and injuries in the tear glands. This problem also occurs when the optic nerves or tear glands are infected due to drug reactions. Moreover, it also results due to the gland of the third eyelid. And many a times, the gland just stops to function resulting in dryness of the eyes.

Pet parents need to be aware about the reasons as well as the solutions of this problem. You must consult your vet for the details of this disease. It is good have a fair account of the symptoms and solutions for such conditions found in the pet. Common symptoms of dry eyes or Keratoconjunctivitis sicca or KCS are:

• Too much blinking
• Swelling of conjunctival blood vessels
• Swelling of the area near the eyelids
• Prominent third eyelid
• Pus discharge from the eye
• Cornial problems like pigmentation and ulceration in the eye

Due to all these reasons, the eye becomes unable to flush away foreign particles like dust, pollen, debris etc. Veterinarians detect the problem by measuring tear production. It is measured by Schirmer tear test strip that soaks tears and thus can detect less tear production when compared to the normal condition. If the wet area in the strip is less then it is the case of KCS.

What are the risks associated with dry eyes in dogs?

Pets with dry eyes are susceptible to chronic eye infections which is a very painful situation. If less tears are produced then the pet suffers from irritation of the cornea, corneal ulceration and scarring in the eyes. Repeated conditions of this kind may result in blindness. To prevent this situation, pet parents need to be proactive and reach the vet’s clinic on facing any trouble with the pet’s eyes.

How to treat KCS or dry eyes in dogs?

First step, is to visit the vet’s clinic for identifying the condition and its causes. The veterinarian will suggest ophthalmic ointments or drops to treat the pet’s eyes. Artificial tears solution is also a good remedy for treating KCS. In severe cases, surgeries are availed to sort out this eye problem in dogs. During this phase, if the pet should not be given any kind of sulfa drugs.

To conclude, dog’s eyes are susceptible to various problems including dry eyes or KCS. This kind of an eye condition that lacks formation of natural tears may result in several other problems including chronic infections and blurring of vision. It should be dealt with at the earliest with the help of ophthalmic ointments or drops. Natural tear forming solutions are the finest remedy for KCS. 

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